Asics Fujitrail Elite Short Review

The two Asics Fujitrail Elite Short and Elite SS Top garments are part of the Japanese brand’s trail running line. The outfit is designed for trail runners who tackle short and medium distance training and races, offering functionality and comfort. A distinctive feature is the ability to carry essential items thanks to the numerous pockets on the shorts, thus avoiding the need for a backpack. The side pockets, similar to those on classic pants, increase their versatility, making them suitable for hiking as well.

Technical Features Asics Fujitrail Elite

Short

• Composition: Main fabric: 88% polyester (recycled) / 12% elastane. Pocket lining: 84% polyester / 16% elastane. Coating: 85% polyester (recycled) / 15% elastane;
• 50% of the main material is made from recycled materials;
• Technology: ACTIBREEZE;
• 2 side mesh pockets
• 3 waist pockets in the elastic band, one with a zip;
• Quickly adjustable waistband;
• Internal briefs;
• Reflective details;
• Side slits for greater freedom of movement;
• Country of manufacture: Vietnam
• List price: €95

Top

• Composition: Main fabric: 87% polyester (recycled) / 13% elastane. Insert: 87% polyester (recycled) / 13% elastane;
• 50% of the main material made from recycled materials;
• Technology: ACTIBREEZE;
• Elastic to compress the fabric;
• Reflective details;
• Country of manufacture: Indonesia
• List price: €75

Test mode

I used the Asics Fujitrail Elite pants, both separately and coordinated with the shirt, in different situations and conditions. I tested both during a 25 km trail running race with 1300 m of elevation gain and in training sessions up to 20-25 km.

Thanks to their versatility, I also wore the shirt and pants during hikes in the Belluno Dolomites and the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, with elevation gains of up to 800 m. On these outings, I encountered variable weather conditions: rain, sunny days, and temperatures between 10 and 30 °C.

Among the various occasions, the excursion to Lake Sorapis, described below, was a good opportunity to evaluate its functionality while walking.

Asics Fujitrail Elite Pro Short on-site test

Pockets

The Asics Fujitrail Elite Shorts have two side pockets on the thighs and three pockets on the waistband: one on each side and one at the back with a zip. I appreciated the number of pockets both in training and in competition; although they are not very roomy, they allow you to carry the essentials for a trail run or a race, even without a backpack. The elastic mesh reduces jiggling, preventing discomfort while running.

The side pockets on the thighs are a detail that adds versatility, making the garment suitable for hiking and fast hiking. I was initially skeptical about their effectiveness, but they proved to be practical and functional. I used them to store sunglasses, a headband, and gels (new or used to take back down the mountain). In general, I was able to carry everything I needed: bars, gels, a vest or light jacket, smartphone, and bandana or buff. All the mandatory or useful equipment for a trail run.

The side pockets do not have zips for easy opening, so opening them may require a little more precision.

The rear zip pocket is designed to store your smartphone. Compared to the previous Fujitrail short model, Asics has improved this pocket in terms of capacity and zip opening, making it quicker to use. With the Elite model, smartphones with standard dimensions (approx. 15 x 7 cm) can be stored safely and securely in this pocket.

Personally, I think that an additional strength could have been the presence of a front pocket, in order to store a small flask or to distribute the material better.

Comfort and regulation

The Fujitrail Elite Shorts feature a waist adjustment system with a double-ended drawstring, a solution also found on other brands. However, depending on the load in the pockets and the stress during running, the knot may tend to come undone. The waistband is both elastic and snug, ensuring stability without compressing the lower torso.

During climbs, the side slits allow for a smooth and free leg lift, improving agility without creating constriction.

Slip

For those who want to run in shorts with built-in briefs, the Asics Fujitrail Elite shorts are the ideal solution. Whether in hot weather or rain, they didn’t cause any annoying chafing or irritation. The inner briefs are made from micro-perforated fabric and the seams are minimal and anti-chafing, allowing you to stay dry at all times.

Asics Fujitrail Elite SS Top: comfort and features

When wearing the Fujitrail Elite SS Top, you immediately notice the softness and elasticity of the fabric, which promotes freedom of movement of the torso and arms. The flat seams, as stated by Asics and confirmed in tests, minimize chafing and irritation.

Even when wearing a backpack for trekking or hiking, I did not experience any discomfort in the shoulder or chest area, and the breathability proved to be excellent.

The sleeves are relatively long, ending just above the elbow: they do not hinder movement and offer additional protection from the sun or natural elements such as branches.

A useful detail is the removable elastic with a button, designed to pack the shirt away when not in use. Personally, I found it practical for storing it in my pants pockets or backpack.

Asics has added loops to the shirt and pants that are useful for drying and, in the case of the pants, for keeping a cup handy during refreshment breaks.

To improve visibility in low light conditions, there are reflective details on the front and back. In my opinion, although these are original and aesthetically pleasing elements, they are rather small and seem to be more of a design choice than a real functional requirement.

Fabric properties

I used the Fujitrail Elite suit in different weather conditions and what impressed me most was how quickly it dried, thanks to the Acticbreeze technology used in both the top and shorts. This technology keeps you feeling fresh and comfortable during activity.

The lightweight, micro-perforated fabric helped wick away excess moisture during moments of intense activity, while in the rain it didn’t stick to the skin and dried quickly.

During a high-intensity trail run in humid conditions, I noticed that the front of the shirt took a little longer to dry. That said, I struggle to imagine any other garments that would have performed better in that situation.

Fit

I am 1.82 cm tall and weigh 72 kg, and I wore size S for both the shorts and the top. Compared to other shorts from different brands that I use, the size is consistent. A larger size could compromise the support function of the inner briefs.

The waistband of the pants is snug but not restrictive, while the leg openings are soft and allow for excellent freedom of movement.

As for the top, the fit is wider than other European brands. I usually wear a size M, but in this case, the size S fit well, offering a comfortable fit without being tight.

Recommend for

I recommend the Asics Fujitrail Elite Short to trail runners who like to enjoy their training or competition with their shoulders free from backpacks and who want to cover distances of up to about 30 km. This does not exclude wearing these garments for longer distances. In this case, it would be wise to combine the outfit with a trail running backpack.

In addition, both the shirt and pants can be an excellent solution for those who enjoy fast hiking with trips out of town and stable weather.